|
To reduce the possibility of being bitten by insects or arthropods
that can transmit diseases (vector-borne), such as malaria, dengue, and
tickborne encephalitis (TBE), you should―
- Use an insect repellent on exposed skin to repel mosquitoes,
ticks, fleas and other arthropods. EPA-registered repellents include
products containing DEET (N,N-diethylmetatoluamide) and picaridin (KBR
3023). DEET concentrations of 30% to 50% are effective for several
hours. Picaridin, available at 7% and 15 % concentrations, needs
more frequent application.
- DEET formulations as high as 50% are recommended for both adults
and children over 2 months of age. Protect infants less than 2
months of age by using a carrier draped with mosquito netting with
an elastic edge for a tight fit.
- When using sunscreen, apply sunscreen first and then repellent.
Repellent should be washed off at the end of the day before going to
bed.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts which should be tucked in, long pants,
and hats to cover exposed skin. When you visit areas with ticks and
fleas, wear boots, not sandals, and tuck pants into socks.
- Inspect your body and clothing for ticks during outdoor activity
and at the end of the day. Wear light-colored or white clothing so
ticks can be more easily seen. Removing ticks right away can prevent
some infections.
- Apply permethrin-containing (e.g., Permanone) or other insect
repellents to clothing, shoes, tents, mosquito nets, and other gear
for greater protection. Permethrin is not labeled for use directly
on skin. Most repellent is generally removed from clothing and gear
by a single washing, but permethrin-treated clothing is effective
for up to 5 washings.
- Be aware that mosquitoes that transmit malaria are most active
during twilight periods (dawn and dusk or in the evening).
- Stay in air-conditioned or well-screened housing, and/ or
sleep under an insecticide treated bed net. Bed nets should be
tucked under mattresses and can be sprayed with a repellent if
not already treated with an insecticide.
- Daytime biters include mosquitoes that transmit dengue and
chikungunya viruses and sand flies that transmit leishmaniasis.
|